Many employees wonder whether it’s possible—or even allowed—to resign from their job while they are on annual leave. Whether you’ve accepted a new role, are considering a career break, or simply do not plan to return, it is important to understand the rules and implications of handing in your notice while away from work.
The short answer: Yes, you can.
Legally, you are entitled to resign from your job at any time, including during a period of annual leave. Your employment contract remains in place while you are on holiday, so your notice period can start even if you are not physically at work.
However, there are some important factors to keep in mind.
1. Your notice period still applies
Handing in your notice while on annual leave does not exempt you from working your notice period. The notice period outlined in your contract will begin from the date your employer receives your resignation, unless you and your employer agree otherwise.
For example, if your notice period is one month and you email your resignation on 1 July while on leave, your notice period will start from that date.
You cannot shorten your notice period by resigning during your holiday, and your employer is not obligated to reduce it unless mutually agreed.
2. How to submit your notice
To resign formally, you must communicate your decision clearly to your employer. Accepted methods of submitting notice may include:
- Letter (note that the date of receipt, not the date of posting, will determine when notice is served)
- Submission via an online HR system, if your company uses one
Make sure you use a method that provides evidence of when your resignation was received. This helps avoid any disputes over when your notice period officially begins.
3. Taking annual leave during your notice period
You are generally allowed to request annual leave during your notice period, but your employer has the right to refuse certain dates if they are not convenient for business needs.
If you are already on annual leave when you resign, these days will count as part of your notice period. Any unused holiday entitlement remaining at the end of your notice must either be taken with your employer’s agreement or paid out as holiday pay.
Your employer cannot require you to extend your notice period simply because you were on leave when you resigned.
4. Professional considerations
While it is legally acceptable to resign while on annual leave, it is worth considering the professional implications.
- Will your manager or team be left in a difficult position without prior notice?
- Do you have important work or handovers that need to be addressed?
- Will you be available to answer questions or assist with the transition while you are still officially employed?
Giving as much notice as possible and communicating professionally can help preserve positive relationships, which may be important for references or future opportunities.
In summary
Yes, you can hand in your notice while on annual leave. Your notice period starts once your employer receives your resignation, and your annual leave will count towards that period. However, it is important to follow the correct process, check your employment contract, and consider the professional impact of resigning while away.
At Offdays, we’re here to help you get the most out of your annual leave—whether that’s planning your next adventure, navigating workplace rights, or making informed decisions about your career. Explore more of our articles for tips and insights on making your time off work for you.
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